TAMPA, Fla. — A search is ongoing for whoever crashed into a United States Postal Service mail truck, killing its driver, before taking off Monday afternoon, authorities said.
Paul Falica, 69, was pronounced dead in the hit-and-run crash, according to the Tampa Police Department.
Shortly before 3 p.m., police arrived at the intersection of North River Cove and North Mulberry Street after receiving a report of a deadly crash, Tampa police said. At the scene, the department says the mailman was pronounced dead.
Sky 10 flew over the area where the crash occurred and the USPS truck could be seen turned on its side.
According to preliminary information, investigators say a dark-colored Mercedes sedan hit the USPS truck and then drove away. Authorities reportedly found the suspect sedan about a mile away from the crash with damage.
The police department says they are still working to identify the sedan driver involved in the collision and will remain at the intersection to gather more evidence.
"Our thoughts are with [the] Falica family during this tragic time and our detectives will work tirelessly to find justice for Mr. Falica and his loved ones," Chief Lee Bercaw said in a statement. "We are committed to conducting a thorough investigation into this hit & run and will use all available resources to ensure that those responsible for this senseless act will be held accountable."
The USPS expressed its condolences in a statement following Falica's death:
"The Postal Service is deeply saddened by the loss of our postal family member," the agency said. "Our condolences and thoughts go out to his family, friends, and co-workers."
Anyone with information or video that can help police with their investigation is asked to contact TPD at 813-231-6130.